Prospective evaluation of dietary and lifestyle pattern indices with risk of colorectal cancer in a cohort of younger women

BACKGROUND

Although colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence in the USA is declining overall, its incidence is increasing among those younger than 50 years of age. The reasons underlying the increasing trend are largely unknown, although behavioral changes, such as unhealthy diet and lifestyle factors, may be partially responsible.

DESIGN

A prospective cohort study included 94 217 women aged 26-45 years at baseline. Validated anthropometric measures and lifestyle information were self-reported biennially. Exposures were four recommendation-based dietary indices-the prime diet quality score and three plant-based dietary indices; and two mechanism-based indices-the empirical dietary and lifestyle index for hyperinsulinemia (EDIH and ELIH). We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall CRC and for early-onset (before age 50) and after age 50 CRC separately.

RESULTS

We documented 332 cases of CRC during 24 years of follow-up (2 113 655 person-years), with an average age of 52 ± 7 years at diagnosis. Hyperinsulinemic dietary and lifestyle patterns were associated with a higher risk of CRC. Multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CIs) comparing participants in the highest versus lowest quartile were: 1.67 for EDIH (95% CI: 1.15-2.44, P-trend = 0.01) and 1.51 for ELIH (95% CI: 1.10-2.08, P-trend = 0.01). Moreover, per 75% increment in rank, ELIH appeared to be a stronger risk factor for early-onset CRC (HR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.12-3.07) than after age 50 CRC (HR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.83-1.73, P-heterogeneity = 0.16). The four recommendation-based indices were not significantly associated with overall, early-onset, or after age 50 CRC risk (per 75% increment in rank, HRs ranged from 0.75 to 1.28).

CONCLUSION

Dietary and lifestyle patterns contributing to hyperinsulinemia were associated with greater CRC risk in younger women. Moreover, the hyperinsulinemic lifestyle showed a suggestively stronger positive association with early-onset CRC risk, compared with after age 50 CRC. Our findings suggest that dietary and lifestyle interventions to reduce insulinemic potential may be effective for CRC prevention among younger women.

Sequence preference and structural heterogeneity of BZ junctions

BZ junctions, which connect B-DNA to Z-DNA, are necessary for local transformation of B-DNA to Z-DNA in the genome. However, the limited information on the junction-forming sequences and junction structures has led to a lack of understanding of the structural diversity and sequence preferences of BZ junctions. We determined three crystal structures of BZ junctions with diverse sequences followed by spectroscopic validation of DNA conformation. The structural features of the BZ junctions were well conserved regardless of sequences via the continuous base stacking through B-to-Z DNA with A-T base extrusion. However, the sequence-dependent structural heterogeneity of the junctions was also observed in base step parameters that are correlated with steric constraints imposed during Z-DNA formation. Further, circular dichroism and fluorescence-based analysis of BZ junctions revealed that a base extrusion was only found at the A-T base pair present next to a stable dinucleotide Z-DNA unit. Our findings suggest that Z-DNA formation in the genome is influenced by the sequence preference for BZ junctions.

Toll-like receptors and inflammation in metabolic neuropathy; a role in early versus late disease?

Neuropathy is a common, morbid complication of the metabolic syndrome, prediabetes, and diabetes. Recent studies have indicated a potential role for the immune system in the development of neuropathy. In particular, toll-like receptors (TLR) 2 and 4 have been linked to metabolic dysfunction, and blocking TLR4 is proposed as a treatment for neuropathic pain. In the current study, we investigated the role of the immune system, particularly TLRs 2 and 4, in the pathogenesis and progression of neuropathy. Sural or sciatic nerve gene expression arrays from humans and murine neuropathy models of prediabetes and diabetes were first analyzed to identify differentially expressed TLR2- and TLR4-associated genes within the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) database. We observed that genes associated with TLRs 2 and 4, particularly lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LPB) and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit beta (PIK3CB), were dysregulated across species and across multiple murine models of prediabetic and diabetic neuropathy. To further understand the role of these pathways in vivo, TLR 2 and 4 global knockout mice placed on a 60% high fat diet (HFD-TLR2/4^-/-) were compared with wild type (WT) mice on a high fat diet (HFD-WT) and WT controls on a standard diet (CON). Mice then underwent metabolic, neuropathic, and immunological phenotyping at two time points to assess the impact of TLR signaling on neuropathy and immunity during metabolic dysfunction over time. We found that HFD-TLR2/4^-/- and HFD-WT mice weighed more than CON mice but did not have increased fasting blood glucose levels. Despite normal blood glucose levels, HFD-TLR2/4^-/- mice eventually developed neuropathy at the later time point (28 wks of age) but were somewhat protected from neuropathy at the early time point (16 wks of age) as measured by shorter hind paw withdraw latencies. This is in contrast to HFD-WT mice which developed neuropathy within 11 wks of being placed on a high fat diet and were neuropathic by all measures at both the early and late time points. Finally, we immunophenotyped all three mouse groups at the later time point and found differences in the number of peripheral blood Ly6C-myeloid cells as well as F4/80+ expression. These results indicate that TLR signaling influences early development of neuropathy in sensory neurons, potentially via immune modulation and recruitment.

Abstract P4-06-23: Feasibility of sygeneic mice models of breast cancer for research of immune checkpoint blockades

Background: With the increasing success of immune checkpoint blockades for cancer treatment, we increasingly need well-characterized preclinical models. Syngeneic mice models (with a fully competent immune system) have advantages that they are easily established and cost less, though they do not reflect genetic complexity of human tumors. We evaluated feasibility of syngeneic mice models of breast cancer by analyzing efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade and dynamic change of tumor immune microenvironment.

Methods: We used syngeneic mice model of JC, 4T1, and EMT6 cells, which are all murine triple negative breast cancer in BALB/c mice. At the time when subcutaneous tumors reach at 50˜100mm^3, each mice models were divided into 2 groups for treatment versus no-treatment control. In the treatment group, mice version of anti-PD-1 antibody was intraperitoneally injected (q 3 days, x 6). Anti-tumor efficacy was monitored by measuring tumor volume. 'Tumor response' was defined as a case with tumor volume less than that of control group by a standard error at a determined time point. Immune microenvironment was evaluated by measuring serum cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNFα) with legendplex and immune cells (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD56, and FOXP3) of peripheral blood with FACS before injection of PD-1 blockade, after 1st injection, and when euthanized. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells were evaluated with FACS, when euthanized.

Results: The tumor response rate to PD-1 blockade was highest in the 4T1 model (54.5%, 6/11) compared to JC model (40%, 4/10) or EMT6 model (36.4%, 4/11). Bleeding 3 times and tumor obtainment when euthanized in each mouse were feasible for profiling of cytokines and immune cells. Although before treatment with PD-1 blockade, CD3+T cells in peripheral blood were slightly lower in 4T1 model (18.3±8.1%) than JC model (24.6±4.7%) or EMT6 model (27.9±6.3%), after injection of one dose of PD-1 blockade, CD3+T cells increased 1.5 times in 4T1 model (18.3% to 27.3%), whereas those CD3+T cells decreased slightly in JC model and EMT6 model. Dynamic changes were not observed in other subsets of peripheral immune cells in all 3 models. Serum TNFα (with statistical significance) and IFNγ (with borderline significance) were higher in responders than in non-responders or no-treatment control.

Conclusions: Syngeneic mice models of breast cancer were feasible to investigate immune checkpoint blockades and monitor dynamic change of immune microenvironment. In this regard, such models may be used to evaluate immune checkpoint blockade-based combination therapy as well.

Citation Format: Moon YW, Park N, Hur J, Pandey K, Cho YB, Kim SK, Lee SA, Son GW, Jo JM, An H-J. Feasibility of sygeneic mice models of breast cancer for research of immune checkpoint blockades [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-06-23.

Abnormal RNA stability in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) share key features, including accumulation of the RNA-binding protein TDP-43. TDP-43 regulates RNA homeostasis, but it remains unclear whether RNA stability is affected in these disorders. We use Bru-seq and BruChase-seq to assess genome-wide RNA stability in ALS patient-derived cells, demonstrating profound destabilization of ribosomal and mitochondrial transcripts. This pattern is recapitulated by TDP-43 overexpression, suggesting a primary role for TDP-43 in RNA destabilization, and in postmortem samples from ALS and FTD patients. Proteomics and functional studies illustrate corresponding reductions in mitochondrial components and compensatory increases in protein synthesis. Collectively, these observations suggest that TDP-43 deposition leads to targeted RNA instability in ALS and FTD, and may ultimately cause cell death by disrupting energy production and protein synthesis pathways.

Administration of Cripto in GRP78 overexpressed human MSCs enhances stem cell viability and angiogenesis during human MSC transplantation therapy

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of concurrent GRP78 overexpression combined with Cripto on hMSC proliferation and migration both in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, we explored whether the treatment enhances effectiveness of hMSC transplantation in ischaemic tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human MSCs obtained from human adipose tissue were cultured in α-minimum essential medium (Hyclone, Logan, UT, USA) supplemented with 10% (v/v) foetal bovine serum (Hyclone), 100 U mL^-1 penicillin and 100 μg mL^-1 streptomycin. Murine hindlimb ischaemic model was generated with 8-week-old male nude BALB/c mice (Biogenomics, Seoul, Korea) maintained under a 12-h light/dark cycle following the established protocol with minor modification. Cellular injection was performed no later than 3 hour after surgery. Lipofectamine transfection, single-cell cultivation assay, transwell assay, scratch wound-healing migration assay, immunohistochemistry and western blotting assays were performed.

RESULTS

Overexpression of GRP78 along with Cripto enhanced hMSC proliferation, migration and invasion. It increased interaction of surface GRP78 receptor with Cripto via JAK2/STAT3 pathway. We confirmed our proposed mechanism by showing that treatment with GRP78 antibody blocks the enhancement in vitro. In vivo, we observed that Cripto induced by the hypoxic environment in hindlimb ischaemic model interacts with the overexpressed GRP78 and increases hMSC proliferation, migration and invasion potentials as well as angiogenesis around transplanted ischaemic site via cytokine secretions.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate supporting evidences that GRP78-Cripto combination technique offers novel strategy to enhance MSC proliferation, migration and invasion potentials as well as angiogenesis around ischaemic site, ultimately facilitating MSC-based transplantation therapy in ischaemic conditions.

Design of a RANK-Mimetic Peptide Inhibitor of Osteoclastogenesis with Enhanced RANKL-Binding Affinity

The receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK) and its ligand RANKL are key regulators of osteoclastogenesis and well-recognized targets in developing treatments for bone disorders associated with excessive bone resorption, such as osteoporosis. Our previous work on the structure of the RANK-RANKL complex revealed that Loop3 of RANK, specifically the non-canonical disulfide bond at the tip, performs a crucial role in specific recognition of RANKL. It also demonstrated that peptide mimics of Loop3 were capable of interfering with the function of RANKL in osteoclastogenesis. Here, we reported the structure-based design of a smaller peptide with enhanced inhibitory efficiency. The kinetic analysis and osteoclast differentiation assay showed that in addition to the sharp turn induced by the disulfide bond, two consecutive arginine residues were also important for binding to RANKL and inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. Docking and molecular dynamics simulations proposed the binding mode of the peptide to the RANKL trimer, showing that the arginine residues provide electrostatic interactions with RANKL and contribute to stabilizing the complex. These findings provided useful information for the rational design of therapeutics for bone diseases associated with RANK/RANKL function.

Dynamic 4D MRI for Characterization of Parathyroid Adenomas: Multiparametric Analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The hypervascular nature of parathyroid adenomas can be explored by proper dynamic imaging to narrow the target lesions for surgical exploration. The purpose of this study was to establish MR perfusion characteristics of parathyroid adenomas to differentiate them from their mimics, such as subjacent thyroid tissue and cervical lymph nodes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Preoperative high-spatial and -temporal resolution dynamic 4D contrast-enhanced MR imaging in 30 patients with surgically proved parathyroid adenomas was evaluated retrospectively. Using coregistered images, we placed ROIs over the parathyroid adenoma, thyroid gland, and a cervical lymph node (jugulodigastric) to obtain peak enhancement, time-to-peak, wash-in, and washout in each patient. Data were analyzed by logistic regression and analysis of variance. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine the optimal parameters for determination of parathyroid adenomas versus thyroid tissue and cervical lymph nodes.

RESULTS

Parathyroid adenomas showed significantly (P < .05) faster time-to-peak, higher wash-in, and higher washout compared with cervical lymph nodes and significantly (P < .05) higher peak enhancement, faster time-to-peak, higher wash-in, and higher washout compared with thyroid tissue. Logistic regression analysis indicated significant contribution from time-to-peak (P = .02), wash-in (P = .03), and washout (P = .008) for differentiation of parathyroid adenomas from thyroid and cervical lymph nodes. Using receiver operating characteristic analysis, we obtained the best diagnostic accuracy from a combination of time-to-peak/wash-in/washout in the differentiation of parathyroid adenomas versus lymph nodes (area under the curve, 0.96; sensitivity/specificity, 88%/90%) and in distinguishing parathyroid adenomas versus thyroid tissue (area under the curve, 0.96; sensitivity/specificity, 91%/95%).

CONCLUSIONS

Dynamic 4D contrast-enhanced MR imaging can be used to exploit the hypervascular nature of parathyroid adenomas. Multiparametric MR perfusion can distinguish parathyroid adenomas from subjacent thyroid tissue or lymph nodes with diagnostic accuracies of 96%.

Distinct Z-DNA binding mode of a PKR-like protein kinase containing a Z-DNA binding domain (PKZ)

Double-stranded ribonucleic acid-activated protein kinase (PKR) downregulates translation as a defense mechanism against viral infection. In fish species, PKZ, a PKR-like protein kinase containing left-handed deoxyribonucleic acid (Z-DNA) binding domains, performs a similar role in the antiviral response. To understand the role of PKZ in Z-DNA recognition and innate immune response, we performed structural and functional studies of the Z-DNA binding domain (Zα) of PKZ from Carassius auratus (caZα_PKZ). The 1.7-Å resolution crystal structure of caZα_PKZ:Z-DNA revealed that caZα_PKZ shares the overall fold with other Zα, but has discrete structural features that differentiate its DNA binding mode from others. Functional analyses of caZα_PKZ and its mutants revealed that caZα_PKZ mediates the fastest B-to-Z transition of DNA among Zα, and the minimal interaction for Z-DNA recognition is mediated by three backbone phosphates and six residues of caZα_PKZ. Structure-based mutagenesis and B-to-Z transition assays confirmed that Lys56 located in the β-wing contributes to its fast B-to-Z transition kinetics. Investigation of the DNA binding kinetics of caZα_PKZ further revealed that the B-to-Z transition rate is positively correlated with the association rate constant. Taking these results together, we conclude that the positive charge in the β-wing largely affects fast B-to-Z transition activity by enhancing the DNA binding rate.

Higher levels of small dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) are associated with cardiac autonomic neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes

AIM

To investigate the relationship between small dense LDL cholesterol and cardiac autonomic neuropathy among patients with Type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A total of 175 patients who had not taken lipid-lowering agents previously were enrolled consecutively in this study. Small dense LDL cholesterol level was measured using polyacrylamide tube gel electrophoresis, which fractionates LDL cholesterol into seven components according to particle size and charge. We analysed the mean LDL cholesterol particle size and the proportion of small dense LDL cholesterol.

RESULTS

The mean (± sd) patient age was 56 (± 14) years, the mean (± sd) duration of diabetes was 10.3 (± 8.3) years, the mean (± sd) proportion of small dense LDL cholesterol was 21.3 (± 17.6)% and the mean (± sd) LDL cholesterol size was 26.33 (± 0.8) nm. Men with cardiac autonomic neuropathy had a longer duration of diabetes compared with those without cardiac autonomic neuropathy. Women with cardiac autonomic neuropathy had a larger waist circumference, higher plasma triglyceride levels, smaller mean (± sd) LDL cholesterol size [26.8 (± 4.3) nm vs 26.4 (± 6.9) nm; P < 0.01] and larger mean (± sd) proportion of small dense LDL cholesterol [10.1 (± 9.9)% vs 19.1 (± 16.8)%; P < 0.01] compared with those without cardiac autonomic neuropathy. After adjusting for other confounding risk factors, the triglyceride/ HDL cholesterol ratio (odds ratio = 1.698, 95% CI: 1.07-2.69; P = 0.025) and mean LDL cholesterol size (odds ratio = 0.873, 95% CI: 0.77-0.99; P = 0.038) remained as independent risk factors for cardiac autonomic neuropathy in women.

CONCLUSIONS

A more atherogenic lipid profile such as the triglyceride: HDL cholesterol ratio and a smaller mean LDL cholesterol particle size were related to the prevalence of cardiac autonomic neuropathy in women with Type 2 diabetes.

The protective effects of oxyresveratrol imine derivative against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death in PC12 cells

Oxyresveratrol (2',3,4',5-tetrahydroxystilbene) is a naturally occurring ingredient found in mulberries that shows potential as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective agent. This study was performed to identify materials similar to oxyresveratrol that may have more effective antioxidant properties. We synthesized a stilbene analog referred to as Compound 1 (2',3,4',5-tetramethoxystilbene); a benzamide analog referred to as Compound 2 ((2,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3,5-dimethoxybenzamide); and three imine analogs referred to as Compound 3 (3,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)-(2,4-dimethoxyphenylamine), Compound 4 ((4-methoxybenzylidene)-(3-methoxyphenyl)amine), and Compound 5 ((4-methoxybenzylidene)phenylamine). The cytoprotective effects of these compounds were subsequently evaluated using hydrogen peroxide-treated PC12 cells. The cytoprotective effects of the imine analogs were greater than the effects of oxyresveratrol and the other analogs at concentrations of 200 μM. The Compound 3, which is the most effective imine analog of oxyresveratrol, exhibited these cytoprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress through the regulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and the translocation of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Our results suggest that imine analogs of oxyresveratrol may be useful agents in reducing neuronal oxidative damage.

Association between urine cotinine levels, continuous performance test variables, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning disability symptoms in school-aged children

BACKGROUND

We examined the cross-sectional relationship between environmental tobacco smoke exposure, continuous performance test (CPT) measures, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or learning disability symptoms in school-aged children.

METHOD

In total, 989 children (526 boys, mean age 9.1 ± 0.7 years), recruited from five South Korean cities participated in this study. We used urine cotinine as a biomarker for environmental tobacco smoke exposure, and obtained the children's scores on a CPT. Parents completed the Korean versions of the ADHD rating scale-IV (ADHD-RS) and learning disability evaluation scale (LDES). Using generalized linear mixed model (GLMM), we assessed the associations between urine cotinine concentrations, neuropsychological variables, and symptoms of ADHD and learning disabilities. Additionally, we conducted structural equation models to explore the effects' pathways.

RESULTS

After adjusting for a range of relevant covariates, GLMM showed urinary cotinine levels were significantly and positively associated with CPT scores on omission errors, commission errors, response time, and response time variability, and with parent- and teacher-rated ADHD-RS scores. In addition, urine cotinine levels were negatively associated with LDES scores on spelling and mathematical calculations. The structural equation model revealed that CPT variables mediated the association between urine cotinine levels and parental reports of symptoms of ADHD and learning disabilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that environmental exposure to tobacco smoke is associated with ADHD and learning disabilities in children, and that impairments in attention and inhibitory control probably mediate the effect.

Central nervous system endoplasmic reticulum stress in a murine model of type 2 diabetes

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Type 2 diabetes is associated with complications in the central nervous system (CNS), including learning and memory, and an increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases. The mechanism underlying this association is not understood. The aim of this study was to gain greater insight into the possible mechanisms of diabetes-induced cognitive decline.

METHODS

We used microarray technology to identify and examine changes in gene expression in the hippocampus of a murine model of type 2 diabetes, the db/db mouse. Bioinformatics approaches were then used to investigate the biological significance of these genes. To validate the biological significance we evaluated mRNA and protein levels.

RESULTS

At 8 and 24 weeks, 256 and 822 genes, respectively, were differentially expressed in the db/db mice. The most significantly enriched biological functions were related to mitochondria, heat shock proteins, or the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the majority of which were downregulated. The ER-enriched cluster was one of the clusters that contained the highest number of differentially expressed genes. Several of the downregulated genes that were differentially expressed at 24 but not at 8 weeks are directly involved in the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway and include two heat shock proteins (encoded by Hspa5 and Hsp90b1), a transcriptional factor (x-box binding protein 1, encoded by Xbp1), and an apoptotic mediator (DNA-damage inducible transcript 3, encoded by Ddit3).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

The changes that we observed in the UPR pathway due to ER stress may play a role in the pathogenesis of CNS complications in diabetes. The results of this study are a foundation for the development of pharmacological targets to reduce ER stress in diabetic hippocampi.

Comparative study of fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for the detection of spinal bone marrow infiltration in untreated patients with multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND

The presence and extent of osteolytic bone lesions in untreated patients with multiple myeloma are important factors in the staging of the disease, and the extent of bone lesions in multiple myeloma cases significantly influences decisions regarding therapy. Recently, fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been used to detect bone marrow involvement in patients with multiple myeloma.

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of FDG-PET and MRI for the detection of bone marrow infiltration into the spine in untreated patients with multiple myeloma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-two patients with multiple myeloma underwent both FDG-PET and spine MRI. The examined spinal regions by MRI included 21 thoracic and lumbar spines, one lumbar spine, and 12 cervical spines. The following imaging sequences were performed: T1-weighted spin-echo MRI with and without fat suppression, and T2-weighted spin-echo MRI in the sagittal plane. In the patients with bone marrow abnormalities, an additional contrast-enhanced T1-weighted spin-echo MR image and a fat-suppressed T1-weighted spin-echo MR image were obtained. Patients were divided into three groups on the basis of the criteria defined by Durie and Salmon: stage I (n=9), stage II (n=3), and stage III (n=10). The number and location of lesions detected in both FGD-PET and MRI were recorded, and the lesions were compared using the McNemar test. Bone marrow biopsy results, the patient's clinical examinations, and other imaging findings (MRI, FDG-PET, etc.) were used as references.

RESULTS

In stages I and II (37 lesions in 12 patients), FDG-PET and MRI detected lesions in 78% (29 of 37 lesions) and 86% (32 of 37 lesions), respectively. However, the difference between the abilities of FDG-PET and MRI to detect lesions was not statistically significant (P=0.317). In stage III (101 lesions in 10 patients), FDG-PET and MRI detected lesions in 80% (81 of 101 lesions) and 92% (93 of 101 lesions), respectively. The difference between the abilities of FDG-PET and MRI to detect lesions was statistically significant (P=0.038).

CONCLUSION

MRI is superior to FDG-PET in detecting bone marrow involvement in the spine of patients with advanced multiple myeloma.

Use of synchronous fluorescence spectra to estimate biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) of urban rivers affected by treated sewage

Synchronous fluorescence spectra and the first derivative spectra of urban rivers affected by treated sewage were studied to find the optimum index for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) estimation. In addition, various sample treatment methods as well as the multiple regression method using available monitoring parameters were examined to improve the BOD estimation capability of the indices. From July to November 2006, grab samples were collected from three rivers in the city of Seoul, Korea, which included one receiving effluent from a municipal wastewater treatment facility. The BOD values of the samples ranged from 0.4 to 28.0 mg l(-1). Out of the many fluorescence characteristics observed, the relative fluorescence intensity at 283 nm to 245 nm from the synchronous spectra was selected as the optimum fluorescence estimation index because it had the highest positive correlations with the BOD values (r = 0.910). The filtration process, using GF/F filter prior to the fluorescence measurement, resulted in an enhanced correlation demonstrating that the removal of suspended solids from the samples helps alleviate, to some extent, the interference of light scattering. In contrast, the same correlation was not enhanced by the pH adjustment of the sample to minimize the complexation of organic matter with cations. The multiple regression method, using either light scattering intensity at 633nm or turbidity, greatly enhanced the correlation between measured and predicted BOD values. The correlation was even higher than that obtained for filtered samples, thus suggesting that the multiple regression method based on the original sample is more effective than sample treatment in enhancing BOD estimation.

Multiple skeletal muscle metastases from renal cell carcinoma 19 years after radical nephrectomy

Skeletal muscle metastasis is a rare condition in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We here present an extremely rare case of late recurrence in a patient with RCC who had multiple muscle metastases 19 years after radical nephrectomy. This case shows that a soft-tissue mass in a patient with a known history of RCC even after curative nephrectomy, particularly with hypervascularity, must be regarded as highly suspicious of skeletal muscle metastasis.

Optical Tomographic and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Tumor Growth and Regression in Mice treated with VEGF Blockade

Small animal imaging systems now allow researchers to non-invasively monitor the progression of diseases in living small animals and study the efficacy of drugs and treatment protocols. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an established imaging modality capable of obtaining high resolution anatomical images which are sensitive to blood volume, blood flow, and metabolic rate of oxygen. Optical tomography, on the other hand, is an emerging imaging modality, which, while much lower in spatial resolution and insensitive to blood flow, can separate the effects of oxyhemoglobin, deoxyhemoglobin, and blood volume with high temporal resolution. We illustrate how these imaging modalities can supplement each other and cross validation can be performed by applying both modalities to imaging of tumors growth & regression in mice that are treated with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antagonist.

Twin weight discordance and maternal weight gain in twin pregnancies

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between twin weight discordance and maternal weight change during the gestational period.

METHOD

One hundred forty-seven twin pregnancies (Group A: <25%, Group B: > or =25% birth weight discordance) were analyzed using Student's t-test, chi(2)-test, and two-way ANOVA at three gestational intervals: before 18 weeks, 18 to 28 weeks, and 28 weeks to birth.

RESULT

There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups involving maternal age, parity, duration of pregnancy, height, pregravid weight, and conception method. Group A showed a pattern of constantly increasing maternal weight without a significant change in the twin weight discordance throughout gestation. However, Group B showed a fluctuation in maternal BMI with remarkably elevated twin weight discordance at 28 weeks to birth.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that in twin pregnancies constant maternal weight gain throughout gestation is important for maintaining a twin weight discordance of less than 25%.

Antimicrobial performance of alkaline ionic fluid (GC-100X) and its ability to remove Escherichia coli O157:H7 from the surface of tomatoes

An efficacy test of GC-100X, a noncorrosive alkaline ionic fluid (pH 12) composed of free radicals and supplemented with xylitol, was carried out against six major foodborne pathogens-Staphylococcus aureus FRI 913, Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis ATCC 13076, S. enterica serovar Typhimurium DT104 Korean isolate, Vibrio parahaemolyticus ATCC 17803, Escherichia coli O157:H7 ATCC 43894, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa KCTC 1637-at three different temperatures (4, 25, and 36 degrees C) with or without organic load (2% yeast extract). Results revealed a more than 4-log10 (CFU/ml) reduction (1.0 x 10(4) CFU/ml reduction) against all pathogens reacted at 37 degrees C for 3 h in the absence of organic material. GC-100X solution diluted with an equal volume of distilled or standard hard water (300 ppm CaCO3) showed effective bactericidal activity, particularly against gram-negative bacteria. Washing efficacy of GC-100X solution was compared against E. coli O157:H7 on cherry tomato surfaces with those of a commercially used detergent and chlorine water (100 ppm). Viable cell counts of E. coli O157:H7 that had penetrated to the cores of tomatoes after sanitizing treatment revealed that GC-100X stock and its 5% diluted solutions had similar washing effects to 100-ppm chlorine water and were more effective than the other kitchen detergent. These results indicate that GC-100X has good bactericidal and sanitizing activities and is useful as a new sanitizer for food safety and kitchen hygiene.

Characterization of the protective response against a homologous challenge infection with Strongyloides venezuelensis in rats

The protective response in rats against a homologous challenge infection with Strongyloides venezuelensis was characterized. In an initial infection with 1000 filariform larvae and migrating larvae (L(3)) of S. venezuelensis, the population of L(3) in the lungs on day 3 postinfection (PI), and that of adult worms in the small intestine on day 7 PI, were 180.8+/-14.5 and 336.8+/-70.7, respectively. The latter were gradually expelled towards day 42 PI. After the initial infection, the rats developed strong immunity against a homologous challenge infection as manifested by a marked reduction in worm populations, stunted body length and width, damage to reproductive organs, impaired egg production and rapid expulsion of the worms by day 14 after challenge. Expulsion of the worms was preceded by a significantly elevated (P<0.05) peripheral blood eosinophil (PBE) count, both in the initial (200.0+/-26.5 x 10(3)ml) and the challenge infection (400.9+/-165.4 x 10(3)ml). These findings suggest that rats acquire strong homologous immunity following initial exposure to S. venezuelensis. It is suggested that PBEs are involved in worm expulsion. A major target of these effector mechanisms is the reproductive system of S. venezuelensis.

Mycosis fungoides presenting as Ofuji's papuloerythroderma

We report three patients presented with clinical features of Ofuji's papuloerythroderma (pruritic erythematous papules and extensive erythema sparing all skin folds), however, showing histopathological findings of mycosis fungoides (Pautrier's microabscess, haloed lymphocytes, disproportionate epidermotropism, and wiry collagen bundles). One case was associated with plaque stage of mycosis fungoides and follicular mucinosis. T-cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangement analysis in the lesional skin tissue demonstrated rearrangement of the gamma chain in all cases. HTLV-1 serology was negative for two patients who conducted HTLV-1 test. We think that Ofuji's papuloerythroderma might be a variant of early mycosis fungoides rather than secondary skin manifestations to certain cutaneous inflammatory diseases.

Induction of caspase-11 by inflammatory stimuli in rat astrocytes: lipopolysaccharide induction through p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway

Caspase-11 plays a crucial role in both inflammation and apoptosis. Caspase-11 not only activates caspase-1, that is required for the maturation of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-18, but also activates caspase-3, leading to cellular apoptosis under pathological conditions. Here, we cloned the rat homolog of caspase-11, and investigated its inducibility by inflammatory stimuli and signal transduction pathways involved. Deduced amino acid sequence of rat caspase-11 showed 88.7% similarity to mouse caspase-11, and in vitro translation of rat caspase-11 cDNA yielded approximately a 43 kDa polypeptide, which was in agreement with predicted protein size generated from full-length rat caspase-11 cDNA. The expression of caspase-11 was strongly induced at both mRNA and protein levels by inflammatory stimuli such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in C6 rat glial cells as well as primary astrocytes. LPS induced activation of both p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in C6 cells. However, SB203580 (specific inhibitor of p38 kinase), but not PD98059 (specific inhibitor of ERK kinase), inhibited LPS induction of caspase-11, indicating that induction of caspase-11 by LPS in astrocytes was mediated through the p38 MAPK pathway. Inflammatory induction of caspase-11 in astrocytes may play an important role in both inflammatory responses involving these cells and auto-regulatory apoptosis of activated astrocytes in inflammatory sites.

Selective coactivation of estrogen-dependent transcription by CITED1 CBP/p300-binding protein

CITED1, a CBP/p300-binding nuclear protein that does not bind directly to DNA, is a transcriptional coregulator. Here, we show evidence that CITED1 functions as a selective coactivator for estrogen-dependent transcription. When transfected, CITED1 enhanced transcriptional activation by the ligand-binding/AF2 domain of both estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) and ERbeta in an estrogen-dependent manner, but it affected transcriptional activities of other nuclear receptors only marginally. CITED1 bound directly to ERalpha in an estrogen-dependent manner through its transactivating domain, and this binding activity was separable from its p300-binding activity. CITED1 was strongly expressed in nulliparous mouse mammary epithelial cells and, when expressed in ER-positive MCF-7 breast cancer cells by transduction, exogenous CITED1 enhanced sensitivity of MCF-7 cells to estrogen, stabilizing the estrogen-dependent interaction between p300 and ERalpha. The estrogen-induced expression of the transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha) mRNA transcript was enhanced in the CITED1-expressing MCF-7 cells, whereas estrogen-induced expression of the mRNA transcripts for progesterone receptor or pS2 was not affected. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that endogenous CITED1 is recruited to the chromosomal TGF-alpha promoter in MCF-7 cells in an estrogen-dependent manner but not to the pS2 promoter. These results suggest that CITED1 may play roles in regulation of estrogen sensitivity in a gene-specific manner.

Dual role of inflammatory stimuli in activation-induced cell death of mouse microglial cells. Initiation of two separate apoptotic pathways via induction of interferon regulatory factor-1 and caspase-11

We have previously shown that mouse microglial cells undergo apoptosis upon inflammatory activation and that nitric oxide (NO) is the major autocrine mediator in this process (Lee, P., Lee, J., Kim, S., Yagita, H., Lee, M. S., Kim, S. Y., Kim, H., and Suk, K. (2001) Brain Res. 892, 380-385). Here, we present evidence that interferon regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) and caspase-11 are the essential molecules in activation-induced cell death of microglial cells. The apoptogenic action of inflammatory stimuli such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-gamma (IFNgamma) was mediated through the induction of IRF-1 and caspase-11 expression in two separate events. Although IRF-1 was required for NO synthesis, caspase-11 induction was necessary for NO-independent apoptotic pathway. Microglial cells from IRF-1-deficient mice showed markedly decreased NO production, and they were partially resistant to apoptosis in response to LPS/IFNgamma but were sensitive to NO donor exposure. LPS/IFNgamma treatment resulted in the induction of caspase-11 followed by activation of caspase-11, -1, and -3. Inactivation of caspase-11 by the transfection of dominant-negative mutant or treatment with the caspase inhibitors rendered microglial cells partially resistant to LPS/IFNgamma-induced apoptosis. Inhibition of both NO synthesis and caspase-11 completely blocked LPS/IFNgamma-induced cytotoxicity. These results indicated that LPS/IFNgamma not only induced the production of cytotoxic NO through IRF-1 but also initiated the NO-independent apoptotic pathway through the induction of caspase-11 expression.

Activation-induced cell death of rat astrocytes

Inflammatory activation of astrocytes has been implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases. The elimination of activated astrocytes by apoptosis or the deactivation may be the mechanisms for auto-regulation of activated astrocytes. To test the possibility of apoptotic elimination of activated astrocytes, we examined a potential correlation between activation state of astrocytes and their viability using C6 rat glial cells and rat primary astrocyte cultures exposed to a variety of inflammatory stimuli such as lipopolysaccharide, interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Nitric oxide production was measured to evaluate inflammatory activation of astrocytes. We found that: (i) the activation of astrocytes by the combination of lipopolysaccharide and inflammatory cytokines, but not by either alone, led to nitric oxide production followed by apoptotic cell death; (ii) the amount of nitric oxide produced by activated astrocytes was inversely proportional to the viability of the cells; (iii) inhibition of nitric oxide synthase by N-monomethyl L-arginine blocked death of activated astrocytes; and (iv) nitric oxide donors induced apoptosis of astrocytes in a caspase-dependent manner. Taken collectively, our results suggest that activated astrocytes produce nitric oxide as an autocrine mediator of caspase-dependent apoptosis, and this type of programmed cell death of astrocytes may be the underlying mechanism for the auto-regulation of inflammatory activation of astrocytes.

Examination of gastrointestinal helminth in livestock grazing in grassland of Bangladesh

To determine association of grassland with parasitic diseases of livestock in Bangladesh, the 'Tracer' animals (two cow calves and two goats) were released for a month in a grassland used for communal grazing of livestock near school premise in Kanthal, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. After slaughtering of the tracer animals, their gastrointestinal tract examination revealed six species of nematode and one cestode. The nematode species were Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus axei, Mecistocirrus digitatus, Oesophagostomum spp., Trichuris spp. and Bunostomum sp. The cestode was one of the genus Moniezia. With this preliminary study, grasslands are thought to be one of the main sources of gastrointestinal parasitic diseases of livestock in Bangladesh.

Fibroma of tendon sheath of the infrapatellar fat pad

We report on a 13-year-old boy who was found to have a fibroma of the tendon sheath associated with the patellar tendon and within Hoffa's fat pad of the knee. This benign tumor has never been described in this location previously. The MRI characteristics are correlated with the histologic findings.

Partial cross-resistance between Strongyloides venezuelensis and Nippostrongylus brasiliensis in rats

Rats were immunized through an initial infection with 1,000 filariform larvae (L3) of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and after complete expulsion of worms they were challenged with 1,000 L3 of Strongyloides venezuelensis to investigate whether cross-resistance developed against a heterologous parasite. Nippostrongylus brasiliensis-immunized rats developed a partial cross-resistance against S. venezuelensis migrating larvae (MSL3) in the lungs and adult worms in the small intestine. The population of MSL3 in the lungs were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in immunized rats (22.0 +/- 7.4) compared with controls (105.0 +/- 27.6). The populations of adult worms, egg output and fecundity were initially decreased but from day 14 post-challenge they did not show any significant difference between immunized and control rats. However, the length of worm in immunized rat was revealed as retardation. Peripheral blood eosinophilia was significantly decreased (P < 0.05) on day 7 post-challenge and then gradually increased, which peaked on day 42 post-challenge when most of the worms were expelled. These results suggest that peripheral blood eosinophilia is strongly involved in the worm establishment and expulsion mechanisms.